If you’ve ever wondered if you need a separate skincare routine for morning and night, the answer is often yes. Your skin has different needs during the day than it does at night, which means your skincare routine may help support a healthy look around the clock.
Let’s break down why your AM and PM skincare might look a little different and how you can curate each for the best-looking results.
Morning Skincare: Preparation & Resilience
In the morning, the goal is to help your skin face the day—addressing the visible effects of UV rays, pollution, and environmental stressors. Your AM skincare should focus on hydration, supporting your moisture barrier, and caring for your complexion.
Your Morning Routine Can Include:
Gentle Cleanser: A deep cleanse isn't always necessary in the morning. A light, hydrating cleanser helps remove any overnight impurities or excess oil without stripping the skin.
Antioxidants (Vitamin C, Niacinamide, or Green Tea): These help your skin cope with environmental stressors (daily aggressors that can contribute to the visible signs of aging).
Lightweight Hydration (Hyaluronic Acid or a Hydrating Serum): Hydration is key. A hydrating serum works to plump the look of the skin and helps lock in moisture throughout the day.
Moisturizer: A lightweight, non-greasy moisturizer helps keep your skin looking balanced and prepped for SPF application.
SPF 30+ Broad Spectrum (The Essential Step): The most important step. Daily sunscreen protects against UVA and UVB rays, helping to resist premature visible aging and the look of skin discoloration.
Nighttime Skincare: Revitalizing & Replenishing
At night, your routine is all about rest—this is when you can focus on deep hydration, nourishment, and active ingredients that support a revitalized appearance.
Your Night Routine May Include:
Deep Cleanser (To Remove Sunscreen & Makeup): A thorough cleanse helps remove SPF, dirt, and visible pollution buildup from the day. If you wear makeup or sunscreen, double cleansing (oil-based cleanser first, then a gentle water-based cleanser) helps ensure skin is left feeling fresh.
Treatment (Retinol, Peptides, or Exfoliants): Nighttime is often when your routine can include active ingredients. Retinol works to improve the look of firmness and texture, while AHAs/BHAs help exfoliate for a smoother-looking complexion.
Hydrating Serum (Hyaluronic Acid, Glycerin, or Ceramides): Since skin can lose moisture overnight, this step helps replenish hydration and resist dryness.
Rich Moisturizer or Overnight Mask: Night creams are typically thicker because they work to seal in moisture and support a rejuvenated look by morning.
Eye Cream (If Desired): The delicate skin around your eyes may benefit from extra hydration and ingredients like peptides or caffeine to address the look of fine lines and puffiness.
The Key Takeaway
Your AM routine is all about preparation (helping your skin cope with environmental stressors), while your PM routine is about revitalization (helping your skin look refreshed and rested). Both are essential for maintaining a healthy-looking, radiant glow.
